Sparks promote from within to replace McElligott

Malcolm Porter and Dave Argent will lead South Park into the new Ryman South campaign after the pair were named as the successors to Joe McElligott on Friday.

McElligott, pictured, stood down on Thursday after seven years at the helm but will not be leaving Whitehall Lane after agreeing to become the club’s new general manager and support former assistant manager Porter and first team coach Argent after they agreed to step up.

During his tenure, McElligott led the Sparks from Division One of the Combined Counties League into Ryman South via two promotions before securing a 14th placed finish in their debut season.

Under his guidance, the Reigate club also reached the fourth round of the FA Vase and the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup as well as lifting the Surrey Premier Cup and Combined Counties League Cup.

In a statement released by Sparks officials on Friday confirming the managerial shake-up, McElligott cited fears that his work commitments might impact on his ambitions for the club to improve on last season’s finish for his decision to stand down.

McElligott, who also wants to spend more time with his family and watching his son James play for Horley Town, said: “I have had the privilege of being supported by very good people both on and off the park. I have witnessed the development of the players, the team and club over time and we have defied logic in recent seasons to make the level of progress achieved.

“In reflecting on last season’s performance I believe we could have done better and hope we can improve on that performance next season. Work commitments have limited my time available and I missed some games, including the home game with Burgess Hill, the away fixture at Hastings and others.

"That coupled with being away on business during the week limits my time for training and watching other games. Looking forward in the short term, my work commitments are unlikely to change.”

Backing his former number two and first team coach, he added: “Malcolm has been instrumental in our success in recent seasons and knows the culture and environment. He shares a determination to succeed and remains focussed on continuous improvement.

“Dave has been an integral part of the management team and brings a wealth of experience to the role. Every management team’s success is based on the player’s performance and we have been very fortunate to have players who have shared our desire to succeed. The players for the most part have been brilliant and the journey will continue.”

South Park chairman Colin Puplett said: "South Park Football Club would like to place on record its thanks to Joe for the outstanding contribution he has made during his tenure as first team manager and we look forward to his continued association with the club. The club is confident that Malcolm and Dave will build on Joe's achievements in the coming season."

Image courtesy of www.surreymirror.co.uk

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